When the need for an alfresco tipple strikes, we've got some top watering holes that are perfect for soaking in the sun throughout summer or cosying up at come winter. Make sure you check out our top choices of bars with outdoor seating in Manchester; from huge beer gardens and swanky terraces to sky-high rooftop cocktail picks.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Last updated on 18th June 2025
The Oast House is a charming pub known for its beautiful winter tipis and sun-soaked beer garden in the summer, meaning it makes the list of best outdoor bars in Manchester all year long. Head over to the Spinningfields spot for hanging kebabs, seasonal fare and BBQ bites, all washed down with hoppy brews.
With outdoor Manchester bars often being as bustling as the city itself, it can be hard to find the perfect spot to drink in open air. But that's where Banyan comes in. Not only is it fronting some of the best cocktails around, but also a south-facing terrace for chowing down and drinking up.
Hoping to enjoy a few refreshing craft beers alfresco? Look no further than Doghouse Manchester, the BrewDog hotel. Its relaxed rooftop is where the magic happens: that's tacos, 2 for 1 vegan Mondays and more.
A handpicked selection of wines and carefully crafted cocktails are paired with a huge terrace at this Mosley Street hideaway. Check out Dukes 92 next time you're looking for a chilled out drink, as this sprawling space is suited to all occasions.
Happy Hour | Monday to Wednesday 4pm - 7pm and 4 other offers
The Lawn Club is a staple of outdoor Spinningfields bars, offering a cool location for after-work drinks, alfresco date nights and group hangouts. This place can be found in Hardman Square; boasting deckchairs on their spacious and sunny lawn, as well as a pretty terrace, greenhouses and a wide choice of drinks, including their refreshing range of summer spritzes.
20 Stories is one of the most stunning rooftop bars in Manchester, shaking things up with the changing of each season. That means cosy winter pergolas across the cooler months and English garden-inspired botanicals in the summer, all topped off with inventive menus and live entertainment.
Come for the tapas but stay for the stunning roof terrace, as Simon Shaw's glorious restaurant offers more than the usual Spanish fare. Alongside confit pork belly and chargrilled octopus, you'll be able to enjoy sangria, aperitifs and all kinds of cocktails at El Gato Negro.
The Woodstock Arms has a mega amount of outdoor space thanks to its sprawling beer garden. Behind the bar, you'll find craft ales, plus a wide choice of wines or spirits, while pub meals come in the form of beloved British classics and hearty sharing plates. Cheers.
The Old Wellington, aka The Welly, is a charming pub in Manchester with outdoor seating that makes you feel like you've stumbled across a secret garden. Found in a square that's tucked away from the busy city streets, it's a cosy spot for sipping refreshments and chowing down.
🌸 Kids Under 12 Eat For £1 on Sunday's ❤️ and 2 other offers
Looking for an affordable bar with outdoor seating in Manchester? Slug and Lettuce boasts its very own terrace space complete with reclining wooden deck chairs. Order a couple of cocktail jugs, kick back and chill out, knowing you're not breaking the bank.
Once a 19th-century lock keeper's cottage, this building has seen a transformation into one of Manchester's quirkiest hangouts. Combined with their unique list of beers, wines, spirits and killer cocktails, Lock 91 provides the perfect place to sip a tipple with views over the water.
Both one of the best outside restaurants in Manchester and a great place for alfresco drinks, The Anthologist proves it's much more than just the venue featured on Channel 4's First Dates. Choose between dessert cocktails, other unique pours and full gastro meals here.
Inspired by both American bar culture and Manchester's colourful past, The Liquor Store is one of the city's quirkiest bars. Take the edge off with your favourite tipple, or grab a potent cocktail, before heading outside to lounge around on their terrace.
The Alchemist's waterfront MediaCity spot offers some seriously good outdoor drinking in Manchester. Better yet, you can prepare for cocktails that fizz, bubble, smoke and come to life right before your eyes.
For a fun day out with friends or family, Freight Island in The Depot, Mayfield, offers the perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and entertainment.
With 11 different food vendors serving everything from mouthwatering burgers to vibrant Mexican dishes, you'll be spoilt for choice. Grab a seat in their spacious indoor or outdoor areas and enjoy the lively atmosphere, or head to one of the five bars for a cold craft beer or tequila cocktail.
From their signature rosemary chips to the signature patties, Honest Burgers is a true staple up and down the country. Their Manchester outpost is no exception, as the chilled out spot promises stripped-back interiors and calming vibes from a stunning rooftop terrace.
An affordable favourite, Rain Bar has been a city staple for years, thanks to its large terrace and canalside location. Stocking pints from local breweries, alongside big brand favourites, this is the ideal space for sinking a cold one on a summer's day.
Sure, the Ivy may be renowned for its beaut brasserie and other jaw-dropping interiors, but have you seen their rooftop? Filled with Insta-worthy decor and a glowing bar top, this is your spot for classy cocktails, wines, beers and food, from day to night.
From a cool nano brewery to Miami Ice, which crosses a beach bar with 80s disco, there are plenty of cool traders at Hatch Manchester. When you want outdoor drinks in a shipping container complex, this Oxford Road destination has just the thing.
From an old auction house to a super cool industrial venue and live music bar, YES has been on quite the journey. Standing tall on Charles Street, this place also boasts one of the best beer gardens in Manchester and a roof terrace.
Lover of all things gin? Then you'll want to get Atlas Bar on your radar. This underrated watering hole not only has a huge list of juniper-laced sprits, but also a quaint, hidden terrace for making sure you catch any rays.
Enjoy classic Italian cocktails while taking in the beautiful surrounds at Tre Ciccio in Altrincham. Along with spritzes and short drinks, this restaurant and bar is offering delicious wines, draught beer and plenty of authentic grub to guests on its terrace.
Offering botanical bliss under the stars, The Dakota Grill's terrace space makes for one romantic date night location. With heaters in the winter and sun tanning opportunities in the summer, it's a solid all-rounder if you're looking to grab a drink in the great outdoors.
The Laundrette is firmly on our list of top bars and is just as pretty on the outside as it is inside. Whether you're looking for a hearty Sunday roast, relaxed date night or catch up with pals, this place has plenty of quirky cocktails to pair with your feasting.
As its name would suggest, this stripped-back watering hole is one of the best bars in Manchester's Northern Quarter with outdoor seating. Head to Thomas Street, where you'll find Terrace NQ fronting bare brick walls and simplistic furniture coupled with alfresco craft beers, wines and G&Ts.
What happens when you add an exclusive rooftop members' club to one of the city's hottest hotels? Venture to Hotel Gotham's Club Brass to find out. Think panoramic citywide views, fabulous service and a cracking menu of cocktails.
Manchester's very own two-storey waterside retreat offers some of the most stunning views. Come rain or shine, get yourself down to The Wharf to enjoy a glass from their collection of over 50 wines and 100 malts on the outdoor patio.
